Nature and Health

Recent research shows that being more active and having more contact with nature reduces stress and can have a beneficial effect on depression and anxiety. Increasing access to the natural environment can also help efforts to increase physical activity and reduce health risks such as obesity.

“England’s natural green space … a treatment which is cost effective and free at the point of delivery” Dr Helen Phillips, Chief Executive, Natural England

Through its corporate biodiversity programme, Hampshire County Council is committed to protecting and restoring the natural environment and increasing access to green space. This has clear benefits for public health.